Here at Zen we pride ourselves on being a local, independent business, offering a special experience for all out clients. Edinburgh is full of many other exciting gems hidden away in plain sight, that showcase what’s great about the city. Below we have listed some of our favourite local spots to eat, drink, and experience the beautiful surroundings the city has to offer. why not give them a try?

The Treehouse Cafe

This fabulous little café sits on the corner of Leven Street and Glengyle Terrace, just along the road from our Bruntsfield Place salon. It’s a little family-run place which offers a range of breakfast and lunch delights.

It’s really all about their amazing pancakes. Without doubt the best pancakes you’ll ever have! Choose from a tasty selection of fruits, savouries, and sauces with or without Nutella and indulge in food heaven. A little pre-warning, the portions are huge so maybe skip a meal if you’re planning a visit or go for a big run to work up an appetite.

At only £6.50 it’s an eating delight you don’t want to miss. Perfect for the family or even for a little bit of piece and quiet. The cafe usually has some opera music playing, offering a great atmosphere to sit and relax in.

ALC

Located on Thistle Street, this quiet boutique offers a unique range of stylish clothing, a little bit different from what’s on offer on the high street. The boutique was opened by its owner Adele to address the problem of womens’ jeans. Her philosophy is that every women can find a pair of jeans that’s the perfect fit.

However, the little shop stocks more than just jeans and is always worth popping in to find an amazing piece.

The Water of Leith

A little bit of country in the city. This scenic path runs right the way though Edinburgh city centre almost unnoticed by those shuffling around it everyday. Many beautiful areas can be reached from the pathway such as Colinton Village and Dell, the Union Canal, Saughton Winter Gardens, Murrayfield Stadium, the Scottish Gallery of Modern Art, Dean Village, Stockbridge, the Royal Botanic Garden and Leith.

Getting down on to the path is an adventure in itself. The entry steps and slipways are concealed around the urban settings of Edinburgh, but once your on it you’ll never want to leave.

You can join the path at different spots around the city and even join other paths along the way. A fantastic place to spend the day walking or cycling.

Bodega

Image: Bodega website

This fantastic little restaurant calls Elm Row its home. Nestled quietly amongst larger shop fronts, this little restaurant could be easily missed as you walk past. Seating only 20 guests at full capacity, Bodega is a fantastic place to go with friends or as part of a bigger group.

The founders started the restaurant to provide authentic street style food in the city, with fresh, vibrant flavour. The tacos are always fantastic and so is the service. We would recommend trying out their specials when you visit.

The restaurant is open 7 days a week and even has its own version of two for Tuesday which has now been extended to Monday! How exciting!

Cramond Beach walkway

Cramond Beach is a beautiful place situated along the Forth, on the north side of Edinburgh. The beach is a great place to take your family, dog, or friends and enjoy the sea views.

The beach also provides a walkway to Cramond Island, under a mile from the shore. Although the island is uninhabited there are lots of things to explore and evidence of previous human settlement.

Cramond is not only home to a beautiful sandy walkway and island, it also serves as the start of a forest covered walk past a waterfall. The path runs from Cramond Beach into Cramond Town following the flow of the river. The path is perfect to undertake a range of activities from cycling to walking. maybe even some stone hopping if your feeling brave!